What is LiDAR and what is it used for?
by Alicia Turner Professional SEOWhile LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is not a wholly new technology, it is still necessary to understand what exactly it is so as to make even more extensive use thereof in the future.
Essentially,
LiDAR operates by pulsing a laser onto a specific point, which laser allows
surveyors to make allowances for dense objects like trees and/or built
structures as part of their measurements. LiDAR also makes it possible to
better determine the depth and density of an object – for example, laser
readings can indicate changes in rock density or ocean depth. As such, LiDAR
can provide highly accurate readings, which are necessary to ensure safety when
undertaking any construction or excavation activities.
UAV LiDAR,
otherwise known as LiDAR that operates via the use of a drone (Unmanned Aerial
Vehicle), is especially beneficial for covering larger distances. This approach
to surveying, rather than using manned vehicles like helicopters, tends to work
out cheaper, as it is more cost-effective to operate and transport a drone than
it is to fly a manned vehicle. When using UAV LiDAR, the drone is flown over
the area to collect LiDAR point data. This data is then transmitted and stored
in specialized software that can convert the data to visual representations
(i.e., maps).
While LiDAR is
most commonly known and used in the fields of construction and archaeology, it’s
uses extend much further, including traffic congestion mapping to better plan
roads; crop mapping to determine where to plant different crops so as to gain
better yields; and pollution modelling, which can help to determine areas where
there is significant pollution build-up and, thereby, assist stakeholders in finding
ways to reduce pollution in these areas.
It is likely
that as LiDAR technology continues to improve, its uses may become even more
varied.
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Created on Dec 13th 2021 23:14. Viewed 241 times.